in the first presidential debate. hallie jackson has more. good morning. >> both candidates are taking these few days to lower expectations. they're talking up the other guy. >> governor romney is a good debater. i'm just ok. >> and so it continues, setting expectations. >> i think people should expect mitt romney will come in very prepared. >> president obama is a gifted speaker. >> paul ryan downplayed how much this debate may mean to the campaign. >> the campaign has not had a good two weeks. it changes on wednesday night. >> both sides are promising a substantive look on at once the night. a night that will focus on domestic policy. >> we will say where we are as a country and where we need to go. >> john mccain cautioned don't expect any major breakthroughs. >> the candidates are well scripted. >> who is the alpha dog? that is what we want to see. >> mitt romney is holding a rally in denver tonight. president obama is practicing in nevada today and tomorrow and flying to colorado on wednesday. >> who do americans